Early American Theatre from the Revolution to Thomas Jefferson
Into the Hands of the People

This 2003 book examines the growth and influence of the theatre in the development of the young American Republic.

Heather S. Nathans (Author)

9780521825085, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 17 July 2003

260 pages, 8 b/w illus. 5 tables
22.9 x 15.2 x 1.9 cm, 0.55 kg

'… scholars interested in the history of the early American theatre, and the impact of social and political forces on its development, will find much here of interest.' Journal of American Studies

Theatre has often served as a touchstone for moments of political change or national definition and as a way of exploring cultural and ethnic identity. In this 2003 book, Heather Nathans examines the growth and influence of the theatre in the development of the young American Republic, from the Revolution through to the election of Thomas Jefferson in 1800. Unlike many works on the early American theatre, this book explores the lives and motives of the people working behind the scenes to establish a new national drama. Some of the most famous figures in American history, from George Washington to Sam Adams, from John Hancock to Alexander Hamilton, battled over the creation of the American theatre. The book traces their motives and strategies - suggesting that for many of these men, the question of whether or not Americans should go to the playhouse meant the difference between the success and failure of the Revolutionary mission.

List of illustrations
List of tables
Acknowledgements
Introduction
1. Extravagance and dissipation
2. Revolutionary transformations
3. 'A democracy of glee'
4. Butcher, baker, candlestick maker
5. A commercial community
6. Into the hands of the people
Epilogue: 'from an infant stage'
Tables
Notes
Bibliography
Index.

Subject Areas: Theatre studies [AN]